Wild Smaragdina Betta (Blue/Green) (Betta smaragdina) Bred in SA

The Wild Smaragdina Betta, also known as the Emerald Betta, is a stunning labyrinth fish native to Southeast Asia, particularly found in the shallow waters of northeastern Thailand and Laos. This species is admired for its shimmering blue-green coloration, peaceful demeanor (compared to other Betta species), and ability to thrive in a naturalistic aquarium setting. Its name, smaragdina, means “emerald-like,” reflecting its metallic sheen.

Natural Habitat

In the wild, Betta smaragdina inhabits slow-moving or stagnant waters such as rice paddies, ponds, and shallow streams. These environments are often warm, soft, and slightly acidic, with dense vegetation and organic matter.

Aquarium Care

Tank Requirements

• Minimum Tank Size: 20 liters for a single Betta or pair; larger tanks are recommended for community setups.
• Water Temperature: 24–30°C.
• pH Range: 5.5–7.5.
• Water Hardness: 0–12 dGH (soft to moderately hard).
• Filtration: Gentle flow to mimic still or slow-moving waters. Use sponge filters or adjustable filters to prevent strong currents.

Aquascaping

• Use fine sand or leaf litter as a substrate to replicate their natural habitat.
• Add plants such as Java Moss, Anubias, Cryptocoryne, and floating species like Salvinia or Water Lettuce for cover and shade.
• Include driftwood, caves, or clay pots for hiding spaces.
• Subdued lighting enhances their natural coloration and reduces stress.

Tank Mates

• Wild Smaragdina Bettas are generally less aggressive than domesticated Betta splendens, but care should be taken when selecting tank mates:
  • Compatible with peaceful, small fish such as harlequin rasboras, pygmy corydoras, or celestial pearl danios.
  • Avoid fin-nipping species or other aggressive Bettas.

Feeding

Wild Smaragdina Bettas are carnivorous but adapt well to a varied diet in captivity:

• Staple Foods: High-quality Betta-specific pellets or micro-pellets.
• Live/Frozen Foods: Bloodworms, brine shrimp, daphnia, and mosquito larvae.
• Occasional Treats: Freeze-dried options or finely chopped earthworms.
  Feed small portions 1–2 times daily, ensuring minimal waste.

Breeding

Breeding Wild Smaragdina Bettas is a fascinating process, as they are bubble-nesters and exhibit parental care:

Pair Selection

• Males are more vividly colored with elongated fins, while females have shorter fins and more subdued coloration.
• Introduce a pair in a breeding tank with a divider, allowing them to interact visually before removing the barrier.

Breeding Tank Setup

• Minimum size: 20 liters.
• Add floating plants or a bubble-nesting platform for the male to construct his nest.
• Keep water conditions stable:
  • Temperature: 26–28°C.
  • pH: 6.0–7.0.

Breeding Process

• The male builds a bubble nest under a leaf or floating plant.
• After courtship, the female releases eggs, which the male collects and places in the nest.
• Remove the female after spawning to prevent aggression.
• The male guards and tends to the eggs until they hatch in 24–48 hours.

Fry Care

• Once free-swimming (2–3 days post-hatching), remove the male to avoid accidental predation.
• Feed fry infusoria, vinegar eels, or commercially available fry food. Gradually transition to baby brine shrimp or micro-pellets as they grow.

Key Notes

• Behavior: Less aggressive than Betta splendens, but territorial behavior may occur, especially in males.
• Water Maintenance: Regular water changes are essential to maintain clean, stable conditions.
• Health: Monitor for fin rot, ich, or velvet; a healthy, varied diet and consistent water parameters minimize health issues.

The Wild Smaragdina Betta is a captivating choice for aquarists seeking a natural-looking Betta with a calm temperament and stunning metallic coloration. Its adaptability and unique breeding behavior make it an excellent addition to a soft-water aquarium with a Southeast Asian biotope theme.